THE ISLAND OF CRETE:
The Island of Crete is a Jewel glistening in the Mediterranean located in the south of the Aegean and Libyan sea. Crete has everything - magnificent mountain ranges, long sandy beeches, rocky bays and crystal clear seas. Bathed in clear sunlight much of the year, the climate is one of the best in Europe.
Crete also has a magic radiance which you feel as soon as you step foot on the Island. Many people fall in love with this magical Island returning year after year. The people of Cretie are renowned for there hospitality and tradition of welcoming visitors.
There is a supreme quality of light hear, the sharp rugged mountains meeting openly with the clear azure seas. There is a abundance of wildlife, plants and flowers that are unique to the island. Breathe in the ever-present scents of wild herbs, taste fresh fruit, the best of the world's olive oil and healthy, delicious cheeses. Crete is stepped in ancient history an historian's and archaeologist's paradise.
MAKRIGIALOS AREA:
Makrigialos: Situated on the south east coast of Crete, Makrigialos is only 30 minutes from the working towns of Irapature (on the south coast) and Sitea (on the north coast). Makrigialos is characterised by some of the best beaches in all of Crete. There are many secluded coves, all gently lapped by crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean sea. A mountain ridge runs West to East across the island and it is this which gives Southern Crete its own very special climate. Additionally Makrigialos itself is surrounded by its own mountain range. This geography means that the Makrigialos area has the best climate in all of Crete. The area is popular with tourists all through the winter. It is not difficult to understand why the area produces what is considered to be the best olive oil in the world. Makrigialos is well known for hosting the prestigious Casa Dei Mezzo music festival in June. The nearby village of Agios Atefanos is home to the public observatory were you can observe the sky.
Things to do :
Crete really is a place that allows you to do as little or as much as you want. I strongly recommend that you hire a car. The island is quite simply beautiful, and it would be a shame to visit Crete and not see some of it. Makrigialos is well known for hosting the prestigious Casa Dei Mezzo music festival with musicians coming from all over the world. The nearby village of Agios Stefanos is home to the Sasteria public observatory with 4 telescopes at your disposal for you to observe the heavens. There is a scuba diving centre 30 minutes away located in a beautiful area on the beach at Peristeras. The centre offers a range of diving courses. With coastlines to the south and mountains to the north, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Coastal walks. About 11 miles from Makrigialos is the highest peak in the area, Afendis Stavromenos with stunning views of eastern crete. Gorge walks can be found near Orino (Butterfly Gorge) Pefki and Pervolakia four miles from Makrigialos.
Other Activities:
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
